Everything Knoxville September 2025 Edition

Photo by Madeline Boaz

Learn

Discover why professional grill cleaning is important for maintaining a safe, long-lasting grill. 16

HAE DESIGN STUDIO

discusses the question most homeowners eventually face - should we stay in our current home or should we move? The answer may lie in the unrealized potential of your current space. The SDS Team has helped countless clients reimagine what is possibletransforming awkward layouts and underutilized spaces into spa-like bathrooms, dream kitchens, and full-home renovations.

Hours of Business Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Everything Knoxville is distributed by mail to hundreds of neighborhoods in Bearden, West Knoxville, Farragut, Hardin Valley, and beyond.

From the Publisher

NOT SURE ABOUT you but the oppressive heat and humidity seems overwhelming to me this year. I find I am spending a lot more time indoors - like as much time as humanly possible - to where I am beginning to suffer from the “same four walls” syndrome.

To combat this, I have been looking for ways to “refresh my environment.” Experts suggest a new rug or colorful throw pillows to instantIy rejuvenate a space. Many say something “alive” - actual plants (or even fake ones that look good) and/or cut flowers enliven any decor with a certain freshness.

I have already re-potted a few plants and bought new shower curtains. Simple things, yes, but even a small change can really lift your spirits. I’ll admit, I do smile now when I walk by the bathroom. I also have certain decor, shelf knick-knacks, and picture frames that I

change out seasonally just to keep the mundane at bay.

Shae Seeber of Shae Design Studio talks about a more substantial update to your space this month in our feature. How a newly remodeled kitchen or bath can change your entire attitude about your current home. If you have been struggling with the “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” question, Shae gives us all some inspiration for what is possible when your “refresh” is on a larger scale.

I encourage you to give your space a little kick start. Simply moving accent decor or furniture from one room to another can perk up your usual view of the same old, same old. Whether you’re thinking of which walls need to come down or just updating a current room to serve the needs of you and your family better, change can be energizing.

Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

BY SHAE SEEBER, OWNER & HEAD DESIGNER

THE AGE-OLD QUESTION

homeowners face - should we stay in our current home or should we move? - has only grown more complicated in today’s real estate market. With rising interest rates, low inventory, and the emotional ties to a current home, the decision isn’t always as clear-cut as square footage or zip code. But what if the answer lies not in the market - but in the potential of your current space?

At Shae Design Studio, we’ve helped countless clients reimagine what’s possible within the walls they already love. From kitchen and bath renovations to full-home makeovers, staying put doesn’t mean settling. It means transforming.

The Power of a Design Vision

Many homeowners can’t see past dated finishes, awkward layouts, or underutilized rooms. That’s where our team steps in. Using detailed 2D and 3D renderings, we can show you the true potential of your home - before a single hammer swings. Visualizing what could be gives you the confidence to make smart, inspired decisions, whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, creating a spa-like bathroom, or opening up your floor plan for better flow.

The design team at Shae Design Studio can do it all!

by Madeline Boaz

Why Staying Might Be Your Best Decision ···

This kitchen originally felt compartmentalized and outdated with a layout that didn’t take full advantage of the space’s natural flow. The cabinetry was functional but lacked character, and the finishes had grown tired over the years. Storage was limited, lighting was harsh, and the overall design no longer reflected the homeowners’ style or needs. Our clients loved their home but were craving a kitchen that felt brighter, more open, and truly customized to the way they live, gather, and entertain.

Using our 3D rendering tools, we brought their vision to life! Before any project construction began, the renderings allowed us to fine-tune every detail - from the rich blue island and custom range hood to the statement lighting and brushed brass hardware. Our clients could now visualize the new layout with clarity:

AT SHAE DESIGN STUDIO, we can collaborate with your favorite construction contractor or refer you to a qualified professional. Another successful example of how fresh ideas and design inspiration allowed a client to remain in the home they loved can be found in Willow River Design and Build’s article on the next page.

Take your home from “outdated” to unforgettable - schedule your design consultation today!

the expanded island with seating, the clean sight lines across the room, and how the new cabinetry would elevate both function and beauty. These visual tools provided clarity and confidence, ensuring that every design element aligned with their goals before moving forward.

The finished kitchen looks nearly identical to the renderingsand that’s the beauty of a thoughtful design process. Every detail came together seamlessly, from the bold brass pendants down to the veining in the countertops. The space now feels brighter, more intentional, and is perfectly tailored to their home. It’s a testament to what’s possible when you pair creativity with precision - and when clients can see the future of their home before it even begins.

Shae Design Studio

9700 Kingston Pike, Suite 11 Knoxville, TN 37922

865.313.2656

ShaeDesigns.com

LUXURY RENOVATIONS DELIVERED

HAVING LIVED in his current home for 28 years, it is obvious that Phillip loves the house and its location. When he and his wife, Donna, decided to remodel, they began the process with a trusted real estate agent friend for feedback on recouping their investment. She confirmed that the renovation would be worth it financially and also suggested that the couple talk to Shae at Shae Design Studio for a professional design consultation.

So Phillip and Donna began interviewing contractors to do the remodel work. Of all the ones they contacted, only two came back with proposals, but within all that Shae Seeber’s name continually came up in conversation. They were beginning to be convinced that Shae’s reputation preceded her, so they gave her a call! At her initial consultation visit and after a conversation about their contractor issues, Shae mentioned that her husband, Greg, was a licensed contractor who used a very reasonable cost-plus pricing method. The bid was intriguing, as was the prospect of a husband and wife working with a husband and wife.

After meeting with Greg Seeber of Willow River Design and Build, the remodel contractor was settled and the design stage was underway. “Shae came up with ideas that we never dreamed possible, and working with Greg was a wonderful experience,” Phillip (happily) admits. “Greg was always easy to reach for various communication and offered subcontractors with impressive, quality workmanship.” With Greg’s renovation schedule in place, the work began.

The project was a complete upstairs remodel of their 2,800 sq. ft. basement rancher including a new kitchen. Their three bedrooms became two as the third room was converted into a larger closet and a redesigned bathroom for the main bedroom. Walls were removed to expand a cathedral ceiling and to accommodate the kitchen remodel. During this process, Donna and Phillip relied on the Seebers for overall decision making. “Shae was like our marriage counselor!” Phillip reminisces. “If Donna and I disagreed on something, we would turn to Shae to make the final decision.” Not only did they know Shae would point them in the right direction design-wise, they knew that Greg and his team were great at handling last minute adaptations. “We appreciated Greg’s easy, calm demeanor that remained steady throughout the process.”

In the end, Phillip and Donna were delighted with their “new” home and the work Greg and his team at Willow River Design and Build managed. Phillip sums it up, “I will not construct anything in the future without Greg being involved. In fact, we are currently building a new covered deck and, of course, Greg is our contractor.”

Willow River Design and Build

9700 Kingston Pike, Ste. 11 Knoxville, TN 37922

865.214.7030

LuxuryKnoxHomes.com

Wells Station Barbeque

If You Haven’t Tried It, You Are Definitely Missing Out

LET ME PUT you on to something seriously delicious: Wells Station BBQ. This isn’t just a food truck - it’s a full-on flavor experience. And fair warning: When you’re done reading this, you will be hungry. You’ve been warned.

Wells Station BBQ is a wood-fired barbecue food truck based in Knoxville that pops up all over the place - breweries, festivals, you name it. Their monthly schedule lives on their website (WellsStationBBQ.com), so check it out and mark those calendars. Get there early, because once the food starts flying out the window, it doesn’t last long!

The man behind the magic? Marcus Stokely, aka the Meat Maestro, hailing from Greenville, TN. With more than a decade of fine dining under his belt, Marcus now brings top-tier barbecue to the people - one juicy brisket slice at a time. He’s out there smoking everything from pulled pork, chicken, turkey, bacon, and ribs to - yes, seriouslygator. If it can be smoked, Marcus can make it mouthwatering.

Don’t even get me started on the smash burger. Is there anything this man can’t do?

BY KELLY JO GROSSER LARSEN

My personal favorite? The brisket taco on a beef tallow tortilla. It’s next-level good. Topped with pickled red onions, cotija cheese, and a dreamy avocado salsa verde - it’s flavor-packed and one of a kind. There are also a few sauces to choose from, and

- made by Marcus himself, of course. The jalapeño cheddar sausage has been my favorite so far, and I’m always excited to see what flavor he rolls out next.

you literally can’t go wrong. I’m a proud Wells Station OG sauce girl myself. Side dish? It’s always the mac and cheese for me. Creamy, cheesy, comforting - don’t even try to resist. And do yourself a favor and grab some of the house-made pickles. I’m petitioning for them to be sold by the jar. (Seriously, Marcus, take my money.)

You’ll also find one or two sausage options

When dessert is on the menu, it’s a cause for celebration. The banana pudding is rich and creamy but the sticky toffee pudding with toasted marshmallow whipped cream? Life-changing. Best dessert I’ve ever had! Got an event coming up? Skip the stress and let Wells Station BBQ handle the food. Your guests will rave, and your kitchen stays spotless. Catering info is on their website (maybe send me an invite while you’re at it). With football season just around the corner, you’ll find Wells Station BBQ at the Market Square Farmers’ Market on most home game Saturdays. Swing by, grab a plate, and tell Marcus that Kelly’s Belly sent you. You can thank me later. Cheers, y’all!

Finally, There Is Hope

BY MISTY COTTRELL, MC WELLNESS & AESTHETICS

IF YOU’RE in your mid 30s, 40s, 50s - or beyond - you may have heard the phrase “your labs are normal.” Yet, you know something isn’t right. Fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, anxiety, hot flashes, or just not feeling like yourself… it can feel like your body is in chaos while you’re told everything looks fine.

As a board-certified family nurse practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, I began my nursing career in 2000 and have spent the past five years as a primary care provider. While I loved caring for my patients in primary care, I saw firsthand how time constraints in traditional medicine made it difficult to truly address the deeper concerns of midlife - especially for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Midlife can be incredibly challenging for so many reasons, and I have walked through those challenges myself. I know what it feels like to hear, “You’re healthy, your labs look great,” yet still wonder, “Then what’s wrong with me?”

That question became my driving force. At MC Wellness & Aesthetics, I understand because I’ve lived it, too. That’s why I’ve dedicated my practice to helping women (and men) thrive through every stage of midlife. I have devoted myself to advanced training in menopause care and recently sat for the rigorous certification exam through the North American Menopause Society (now The Menopause Society).

Today, you can get a hormone prescription at almost any med spa, and I am so glad to see more focus on perimenopause and

menopause. But there is a difference. This isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about restoring balance, energy, and confidence. From hormone optimization and personalized weight loss programs to aesthetics that help you look as good as you feel, every service I provide is designed with one goal: helping high-performing women (and men) feel amazing in midlife and beyond.

Midlife is a crucial time to address hormone balance and sexual issues - and that is the main reason I became a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. Having acquired the very latest knowledge, expertise, and understanding on this topic, I am able to prioritize these often-overlooked years to provide specialized, evidence-based care that is personalized, empowering, and designed to help patients feel their very best. My goal is to help women and men navigate changes in hormones, energy, weight, mood, sleep, and confidence, because these are some of the most important years of your life. Having experienced many of these changes myself, I know how transformative it is to have care that truly meets you where you are. You don’t have to settle for “normal.” You deserve to feel your best - body, mind, and metabolism.

MC Wellness & Aesthetics

102 S Campbell Station Road, Suite 26 Farragut, TN 37934

MCWellnessandAesthetics.com

PAT: The one-person play on the life of Coach Pat Summitt

October 3-26 • Old City Performing Arts Center

lisa soland’s

IS an inspirational play that chronicles the life of legendary basketball coach Pat Summitt. It follows her journey from childhood on a farm in Henrietta to a successful coaching career at the University of Tennessee. The narrative highlights her intense competitiveness, which instilled a strong work ethic and accountability in her players. Throughout the play, we see how Pat empowers her athletes to develop a winning attitude while holding them to the same high standards she sets for herself. The play is rich with themes of hard work, discipline, and faith-based values. It begins with Pat’s first visit to the doctor, and as the story unfolds, we witness her gradual decline due to Alzheimer’s disease. However, in true Pat style, the playwright avoids a “pity party” for the protagonist. Instead, Pat is portrayed confronting the disease with courage and determination. Playwright Lisa Soland’s one-man show, Sergeant York: The Play, ran for more than three years and depicted the life of Pall Mall, Tennessee resident Alvin C. York, the most decorated Army soldier of WWI. She also wrote “The Sniper’s Nest,” the story of the real-life love affair between Lee Harvey Oswald and young research scientist Judyth Baker, which premiered at the Flex Theatre at Maryville College and then received several productions worldwide. Other local productions of her work include Waiting, Meet Cute, The Ladder Plays, The Hand on the Plough, Inspired: A Drama with Music, and Dr. Biscotti & the Human Condition. Lisa has more than 50 international publications and has produced and directed more than 120 shows, most of which were world premieres of original works.

PAT is set to open October 3 and run through October 26 at the Old City Performing Arts Center in Knoxville. Proceeds will benefit the Pat Summitt Foundation in its fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

For more information, contact Lisa Soland at 865-396-5331 or visit

Concierge Primary Care

COULD

MORE ACCESS, time, and connection improve your overall health?

During the past decade, the healthcare system has become more like a giant corporation than the family doctor who made home visits. We are all experiencing less face-to-face time with our primary care physicians. MBody Healthcare owners Mike and Melissa Major are here to put the “care” back in healthcare by offering membership-based Direct Primary Care. This model allows MBody to give their patients the time and attention needed to become the healthiest, best possible versions of themselves.

Direct Primary Care membership includes unlimited visits, direct provider access, and all primary care needs, including basic labs and wellness care. DPC is a personalized approach tailored to the patient’s individual healthcare needs. At MBody, they do not wait for diseases to develop and then treat them; the focus is on prevention and early detection to mitigate the chronic disease burden. Think of it as concierge level care at an affordable price.

“I can’t recommend MBody Healthcare enough. It’s like a whole new world of healthcare. The care goes above and beyond. The communication is amazing. They truly listen and take the time to address all your health issues, without ever making you feel rushed. And I’m able to contact them directly for any questions or issues that arise between appointments.

My whole family came down with a bad virus in December, and after seeing us right away in office, Melissa contacted me every morning to check in on us until we were well. I was floored!

That level of care is unheard of in today’s healthcare environment!”

- Krista G.

Save time and take back control of your health with a provider you have access to when you need them and that can give you the time your health deserves. By removing the middleman (insurance), MBody Healthcare is restoring the doctor-patient connection, and their patients have improved overall health and save time and money in the process. For questions or to schedule a consultation, text 865-685-9351 or call 865-399-6026.

MBody Healthcare 1378 Papermill Pointe Way Knoxville, TN 37909 865.399.6026 office 865.685.9351 text MBodyHealthcare.com

Free Movies at the Museums Fridays in September at 8 pm

JOIN THE Historic House Museums of Knoxville for the first three Fridays in September as they continue their collaborative program Movies at the Museums! Enjoy three different movies at three different historic house museums. Admission is FREE for each movie, but donations are greatly appreciated to support each museum’s preservation mission. Bring chairs, blankets, or other items to make your time there comfortable. Concessions will be available at each museum. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash at all times. In case

of inclement weather, a rain plan will be posted on the museum’s event page and social media outlets. Each movie begins at 8 pm.

LINEUP:

September 5 at Mabry-Hazen House: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

September 12 at Marble Springs State Historic Site: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

September 19 at Blount Mansion: Smokey and the Bandit (1977)

Why You Need Boat Insurance

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE a beautiful day out on the water. If you own a boat, chances are that’s how you’re spending a lot of your time. Whether you’re river cruising or searching for the perfect fishing spot, your watercraft is the key to your outdoor adventures. But does it have the protection it needs?

While Tennessee requires boats to be registered and education classes for residents born after January 1, 1989, the state does not require boat insurance. At Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee, we believe in planning and protection for peace of mind. Here’s why you should consider a watercraft insurance policy.

The Basics of Boat Insurance

Your auto and home insurance policies do not cover any watercraft you own. If you don’t have a separate policy for your boat, then it isn’t covered. So, what coverage does a boat insurance policy offer?

• Watercraft liability insurance can help cover expenses if you are found legally liable for damage to other people’s property or injuries sustained by others while enjoying your watercraft. Accidents happen, and this coverage can help make sure you don’t get hit with unexpected costs after a covered incident.

• Physical damage coverage can help cover a range of perils, from theft to collisions, that physically damage your watercraft.

• Medical payments coverage can provide funds to help pay medical bills for yourself or others in the event of an accident. Even with health insurance, hospital visits can be costly.

What

Kinds of Boats Are Covered?

At Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee, our policies can extend to many types of watercraft that are used exclusively for private, recreational purposes. This could include pontoons, small fishing boats, sailing vessels, or personal watercraft.

Choosing the Right Policy

The bottom line is this: Having the right boat insurance policy protects your investment in your watercraft, as well as you and your passengers. Choosing boat insurance is a smart, financially sound decision.

Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee offers flexible watercraft coverage to meet your needs. To learn more about our policies, contact local agent Dana Pumariega today at 865-247-6517.

Hardin Valley Farm Bureau Insurance 10851 Hardin Valley Road Knoxville, TN 37932 865.247.6517 fbiTN.com

Got Grill?

MANY

GRILL owners may not realize the crucial role that professional grill cleaning services play in maintaining a safe, long-lasting grill. Eddy Perez brought locally owned and operated Bar-B-Clean to introduce comprehensive grill cleaning, repair, and sales services to the Knoxville area.

Professional Grill Cleaning

Bar-B-Clean’s core service is its thorough, professional grill cleaning, including steam cleaning of the entire grill. Simply turning up the heat to burn off residue fails to eliminate all germs and gunk. Bar-B-Clean’s steam cleaning process ensures that every part of the grill is meticulously clean by removing harmful carcinogens and charred droppings that could otherwise fall into your food during cooking.

Repairs

Bar-B-Clean offers expert repair services for any broken or malfunctioning parts. From faulty ignitions to damaged burners, Eddy and his team provide the necessary repairs to restore your grill to optimal working condition.

New Grill Sales

In the market for a new grill? Bar-B-Clean also has a selection of high-quality grills for sale. The team can assist you in choosing the perfect grill to match your needs and preferences.

Why Grill Cleaning Matters

• Protect Your Investment: A clean grill lasts longer. By removing grease, rust, and other debris, professional cleaning helps extend the life of your grill and maintains its performance.

• Health and Safety: Burning off residue at high heat doesn’t fully sanitize your grill. Professional cleaning eliminates harmful rodent droppings and built-up carcinogens for a healthier cooking environment.

• Improved Safety: Regular maintenance reduces the risk of grease fires. A wellmaintained grill operates more safely, giving you peace of mind during your favorite family cookouts.

“At Bar-B-Clean, we’re passionate about grilling and committed to helping our customers understand that our professional cleaning process goes beyond what you can achieve with a normal cleaning brush, ensuring a truly clean and safe grill that is clean to the touch, inside and out.”

- Eddy Perez, owner

For more information about Bar-B-Clean’s services or to schedule an appointment, visit Bar-B-Clean.com/Knoxville or call 865-737-4028.

Financial Planning is a Verb

BY ADAM KORNEGAY, ADAM@ASSETPLANNINGCORP.COM

CINCINNATI IS a wonderful place to visit and was the ideal middle spot to meet up with some friends who lived in Cleveland, Ohio. As I’m sure you know, the Queen City is about four hours from Knoxville. But around Corbin, KY, there was a major accident and we had to take a detour. Then, there was a different accident on our new route. Guess what? Another detour. Yes, our detour had a detour! All told, it took us eight hours to meet our friends.

“Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans.”

We got to our destination, just not the way we anticipated and certainly not in the timeframe we expected. Or, as John Lennon once sang, “Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans.”

Financial planning works the same way. It’s not a one-time event but a series of adjustments. Like we say at the office, “Financial planning is a verb.” We see where you are, confirm where you want to go, then adjust as needed.

When reviewing projections for a client, it’s not uncommon to see a seven-figure sum at the end of their (assumed) lifespan. But we don’t set the plan, close our eyes, and hope for the best. Instead, we regularly review and adjust as necessary.

What are some things that could cause a plan to change?

Obviously market returns can play a role. If your portfolio grows at a faster rate than projected, you might be able to spend more in retirement or retire earlier. Similarly, a sequence of poor market returns could delay your expected arrival.

Your savings and spending rates can also be a source of necessary adjustments. If you can set aside funds at a faster pace than you originally thought, you can “buy” a better set of future options. Similarly, if your spending is speeding out of control, you might be forced to adjust in other areas to compensate.

Changes in taxes may result in another type of detour. Congressional action (or inaction) may result in a different tax rate. Additionally, changes in income such as filing for Social Security, retiring from full-time work, or IRA distributions may mean your plans need to change.

Finally, life happens! From births and schooling to marriages and the loss of a loved one, the wheel of life keeps turning.

The pattern is the always same: Experience life, then adjust. Learn new things, then adjust. Change your perspective, then adjust.

One day soon, a self-driving car might transport me to Cincinnati and I’ll just sit back and enjoy the ride. For now, it’s up to me because driving, like financial planning, is a verb.

Adam Kornegay is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and a Certified Kingdom Advisor with APC Financial Planning, which is celebrating its 50th year of serving clients in East Tennessee and beyond. He can be reached at 865-690-1231 or adam@assetplanningcorp.com. APC Financial Planning is a registered investment advisor.

EMBRACING the UNEXPECTED

WITH MORE THAN

40 years of industry knowledge, t he Blinds & More team has been creating oneof-a-kind spaces in Knoxville and its surrounding counties with quality products, a thoughtful attention to detail, and exceptional design. Their top priority is treating clients with respect and integrity while providing the perfect finishing touches for their homes.

“You know, even after two decades designing custom window treatments, I’ve discovered that no two projects are ever the same,” said Jamie Kidd, founder and co-owner of Blinds & More. “I love what I do, but I also love the fact that no project is ever what you expect. Embracing the unexpected is truly the beauty of design.”

Blinds & More is a true multi-generational family business specializing in “All Things Window.” From soft window treatments - which include draperies, roman shades, cornices, and valances - to your functional window treatments such as blinds, shutters, roller, and cellular shades, Blinds & More has all your window treatment needs covered. Everyone in the family has a role in the process, from introductory meeting to project completion. Jamie meets with the client for the initial design consultation. Robbie, her husband and co-owner, oversees the company’s commercial and outdoor projects, and Del, their oldest son - who joined them after 10 years of service in the Air Forceoversees installation of all projects. Together, exceptional service is the family standard.

“Jamie and her team have been exceptional to work with. We ordered custom draperies, custom bedding, motorized shades, and custom window treatments. The quality of the product, attention to detail, and the professional installation - 5 stars!! Even more impressive was the great communication and honesty that you won’t find in many other companies out there. Highly recommend!!”

- Anne Marie Wolsey

In a recent conversation with Jamie, she recounted one of her favorite projects out in Rarity Bay that took her company in some unexpected directions. “We were brought in to address a privacy issue,” she said. “These days, newer larger homes are often situated in cl ose proximity to each other and feature expansive windows, which was the case there. We started the project by designing and installing motorized shades throughout the home that provided the client with the privacy and light control she needed.”

With initial privacy and light control concerns addressed, this “opened the door” to soft treatment needs in other rooms of the home. The client’s beautiful primary bedroom suite needed not only some additional privacy but also a finishing touch that functional window treatments alone could not achieve. “Sometimes you just need to add soft elements to a room to create that extra warmth and sophistication that many of my clients are looking for today,” said Jamie. So, elegant draperies were designed and installed, providing both the privacy and polish the client desired. Once the draperies were installed, one of Jamie’s favorite design opportunities arose, custom bedding. “The custom bedding - in this instance, duvet cover, pillow shams, and decorative pillows - were the finishing touches, or lipstick, as I jokingly tell my clients, for an already gorgeous room,” she said.

And the project didn’t end there. Now pleased with her bedroom, the client moved to the kitchen and dining room, where Jamie again encountered large, tall, and unusually wide windows. With the motorized roller shades already addressing privacy and light control, both areas needed a “bit of softening,” as Jamie put it. “We further refined our previous design by installing custom valances over our motorized shades in the kitchen and extra-long draperies in the dining room. Both areas required an unusual degree of precision and craftsmanship.

“Fortunately, we collaborate with a local workroom that handles all our custom soft treatments,” continued Jamie. “This partnership ensures a personal touch, as everything is locally made, and definitely contributes to the envisio ned final design. This project and this client will always be one of my favorites. We all worked together and very hard to make the client’s vision come to life.

“Can window treatments be unexpected and get tricky? Absolutely. Can the process get complicated? Absolutely, but we are blessed to work with many lovely homeowners who trust us with their homes and trust we will make the process as seamless as possible. We promise to get the job done right and are always ready to promptly respond to any client’s needs, even the unexpected ones.”

Lunch – Dinner – Desserts – Craft cocktails served Monday through Saturday

Knoxville Opera’s Highly Anticipated 2025-2026 Season

Season subscriptions and single tickets on sale now

KNOXVILLE OPERA is thrilled to announce its sensational 20252026 season lineup, celebrating artful schemers who will stop at nothing for love, wealth, and freedom.

The main stage season returns October 24 and 26 with the fiery classic Carmen. Living life on her own terms in sultry Seville, the drama starts when Carmen catches the eye of the soldier, Don José, and desire quickly turns into obsession. Add in the swagger of star bullfighter Escamillo, a touch of jealousy, and one of the most iconic scores in opera history. As irresistible as its heroine, Bizet’s Carmen is a masterpiece of drama and music - including the iconic “Habanera” and “Toreador Song.” Join us at the Tennessee Theatre for this classic tale of passion, freedom, and fatal consequences.

Mischief triumphs for love in Rossini’s Il barbiere di Siviglia February 20 and 22, 2026. Meet Figaro - Seville’s most famous barber and mischief maker - who’s always one step ahead with a plan and a punchline.

When Count Almaviva falls for the clever and charming Rosina, it’s up to Figaro to outwit her scheming guardian so true love can triumph. Featuring the iconic “Figaro, Figaro, Figaro!” aria, Il barbiere di Siviglia brims with rapid-fire wit and comedic twists at every turn. A sharp blade and an even sharper mind can conquer just about anything - don’t miss this riotous romp at the Tennessee Theatre.

Fortune meets family in Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi , a fast-paced farce full of family drama, crafty deception, and razor-sharp wit, May 8 and 10, 2026. When a wealthy Florentine dies and leaves his fortune to a monastery, his greedy relatives turn to the sly and unconventional Gianni Schicchi to fix the problem, with delightfully chaotic results. Featuring the beloved aria “O mio babbino caro” and a cast of characters who’ll do anything for a fortune, this oneact gem proves that sometimes crime does pay. Don’t miss it as we close our season with two performances at the Bijou Theatre.

Knoxville Opera promises to deliver high-caliber productions that will transport attendees. Season subscriptions are available for purchase and single tickets are now available for purchase. Call 865-524-0795 or visit KnoxvilleOpera.org to secure your tickets.

About Knoxville Opera

Knoxville Opera has been the leading producer of professional opera in East Tennessee since 1978. Knoxville Opera’s mission is to create vocal and theatrical experiences that entertain, provoke, and console.

STILL BAD, STILL NATIONWIDE: ZZ TOP ROLLS INTO

KNOXVILLE

THIS FALL

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

AFTER MORE THAN five decades of delivering Texas blues-rock with signature swagger, ZZ Top is nowhere near ready to hang up their boots - or their beards. The legendary trio is charging full throttle into their 2025 tour, and this fall, they’re bringing their unmistakable brand of “loudness and raucous revelry” to Knoxville. For fans in East Tennessee, this October’s stop promises to be more than a concert. It’s a celebration of longevity, grit, and southern-fried sound from a band that has nothing left to prove - but still plenty left to say.

Billy F. Gibbons, the unmistakable voice and guitar tone behind ZZ Top, sat down for a candid, wide-ranging interview where he dished on the tour, the band’s evolution, and what fans can expect when they roll into Knoxville.

Gibbons didn’t hesitate when asked what the crowd can expect in Knoxville: “More of the same loudness and raucous revelry,” he said with a grin. It’s the kind of show ZZ Top is known for - hard-driving blues, fuzzdrenched guitar licks, and decades of hits like “La Grange,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Gimme All Your Lovin’.”

Their 2025 tour follows an international run through Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, and Gibbons says things are “streamlined” and as tight as ever. “We’re down to the last element that needs revision,” he joked. “And somebody said, ‘What might that be?’ I said, ‘How do you shorten a mile? We’ve still got to go A to B.’” ZZ Top suffered a monumental loss in 2021 with the passing of bassist Dusty Hill. But Hill’s wishes were clear: “Give my guitar to Elwood,” Gibbons said, referring to longtime tech Elwood Francis. “He, like the rest of us, got lazy and quit shaving,” Gibbons chuckled, referencing Elwood’s now-impressive beard. “And now he’s joined the fold.”

Francis’ smooth transition onto the stage has been met with almost universal acceptance - something not every legacy act can claim. “A lot of bands catch grief when the original lineup changes,” I told Gibbons. “But I don’t hear that about you guys.” He grinned and responded, “Yeah, they’re still studying the drummer, trying to figure out a guy by the name of Frank Beard that’s clean-shaven.”

And Frank? “His drum set has grown to a size where I can’t even see the guy,” Gibbons laughed. “As long as that backbeat stays with robust stridency, I think we’ll be okay.”

Post-pandemic audiences are different, Gibbons noted. And that’s a good thing. “I think there’s a genuine sense of appreciation when fans come out and get to see a live performance,” he said. The crowd energy has shifted from casual to grateful. After years of isolation, fans aren’t taking live music for granted. And it’s not just ZZ Top getting the love. Gibbons spoke about his side project - the BFG Band - featuring Texas blues players like keyboardist Mike Flanigan and sometimes drummer Chris Layton of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Double Trouble. “We all feel it - it’s more focused,” he said. “That appreciation is real.”

The conversation veered into the personal, as Gibbons shared his passion for classic cars and custom rides. He recently acquired a 1951 Jeep station wagon, a back-road beauty spotted in Boise, Idaho. “We saw it coming from a distance… no place to turn around,” he recalled. But months later, fate - and a business card on the windshield - brought it into his collection.

Gibbons is as famous for his generosity as he is for his guitar tone. One fan in Chattanooga - ticketless the night before the show - happened to meet Gibbons at a local bar. When the fan explained he couldn’t get into the concert, Gibbons made a call. “You and your friend are in,” he told him. That same fan stood near him at the show, grinning ear to ear. Class like that can’t be faked. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or someone discovering the band through your parents’ vinyl collection, the 2025 tour is a chance to witness living rock-and-roll history. And the Knoxville stop isn’t just another date - it’s a full-blown event. The beards will be long, the guitars loud, and the memories unforgettable. So come October, don’t just hear about it afterward. Get your ticket, throw on some shades, and get ready for a night of Texas-sized boogie in the heart of East Tennessee. As Billy Gibbons might say… have mercy.

Visit Boomerocity.com to watch the entire interview with Billy F. Gibbons or listen to it on all major podcast platforms.

Launched in 2009, Randy’s Boomerocity The Fan Experience has more than 500 positive, sincere, one-on-one interview conversations that show fans the true heart of the Baby Boomer generation of musicians, entertainers, and their associates, as well as today’s icons, influencers, and up-and-comers in music.

INSIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS &

KAREN’S JEWELERS

This spectacular clover-inspired 14 mm ruby and diamond pendant is crafted from 14 karat white gold with four genuine rubies surrounding a .44 ct diamond. As Oak Ridge’s oldest jeweler, you are sure to find that perfect piece of jewelry for any gift giving occasion or something sparkly for yourself. Available at Karen’s Jewelers, 1120 Oak Ridge Turnpike in Oak Ridge, 865.483.6717, KarensJewelers.com.

THE ART MARKET GALLERY

KatCobi is a British-born fabric artist known for her distinctive, one-of-a-kind fabric slashed handbags. Her highly sought-after creations blend texture, color, and craftsmanship, resulting in wearable art pieces that stand out from the ordinary. KatCobi’s exclusive designs are available for purchase at The Art Market Gallery, 422 S. Gay Street in Knoxville, 865.525.5265, ArtMarketGallery.net or Facebook.com/KatCobiDesigns.

MAKER EXCHANGE

Visit the Curio at Maker Exchange to shop locally made artwork for 150+ makers. The Kitty Vase, Cowboy Kitty, and Yeow Catnip Banana Mug are new work by local ceramicist Bianca Ray. Stop by at 710 Clinch Avenue in downtown Knoxville between the Marriott and Tennessean Hotels, 865.637.4561, or online at MakerExchangeKnox.com.

MC WELLNESS & AESTHETICS

Elevate your skincare with professional-grade solutions from SkinMedica. Improve visible signs of aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, and uneven tone and texture. Available by appointment only at MC Wellness & Aesthetics, 102 C Campbell Station Road, Suite 26 or online anytime at MCWellnessandAesthetics.com.

SHAE DESIGN STUDIO

A charming trio of cotton tea towels presented on a natural mango wood cutting board. The stonewashed, waffle weave towels are 18" x 28" tied to a sturdy wooden handled serving board. Its rustic charm is an ideal addition to any farmhouse, cabin, or French country kitchen. One of the many decor items available at Shae Design Studio Showroom, 9700 Kingston Pike, Suite 11 in Knoxville’s Franklin Square, 865.313.2656,

THE SPICE & TEA EXCHANGE

Perfect for tea lovers seeking a tropical getaway, this sampler is your go-to for summer gatherings, poolside relaxation, or simply treating yourself to an island-inspired experience. Enjoy the refreshing combination of bright, crisp pineapple and sweet, juicy dragon fruit hot or iced. Premium teas, flavorful samplers, unique gifts, and gourmet ingredients that elevate every occasion are available at The Spice & Tea Exchange, 522 S. Gay Street in Knoxville, 865.985.0913, SpiceAndTea.com.

WALL BEDS: A Hospitality Hub and More

BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM

WALL BEDS have been a practical and popular idea since the 1900s, but oh, how far they’ve come! No longer reserved for small spaces, savvy homeowners are discovering that wall beds work in any size home - from beach condos to barndominiums.

Comfort and Organization for Your Guests

You’ve welcomed your guests with open arms, fed them a delicious meal, and provided stimulating conversation into the evening. Thanks to your thoughtful wall bed design, the sleeping accommodations will keep the sojourner’s spirits high. Add dimmable LED lights and bookshelves for late-night readers and a built-in wardrobe for heavy packers, and your guests will feel welcomed long after calling it a night.

Your guests will enjoy their stay in comfort with our custom wall beds designed for your space.

Room to Spare, No Matter Which Room

Whether you install your wall bed in the home office, bonus room, kid’s playroom, or spare bedroom, when you’re not hosting guests, you too will enjoy its benefits. Charging ports provide an out-of-the-way area to juice up your electronics, bedside drawers and cabinets offer extra storage, and valuable floor space is gained when the bed is not in use.

Designed with Beauty and Style

Available in high gloss acrylic, laminate, or wood grain style finishes, wall beds offer an attractive addition to your home’s décor. Choose a simple, stand-alone model, or create a showpiece with decorative knobs and handles, glass shelving, and cabinet doors in a variety of finishes. Your Local Wall Bed Source

No matter what type of home you own, your custom-measured wall bed will be a game changer. Learn how you can maximize space while providing a host of amenities by visiting the design pros at Closets by McKenry’s Design Center in West Knoxville. Celebrating a decade of service in East Tennessee, owner Chris McKenry and his team will help you design a versatile wall bed that brings benefits to your life while making your guests feel right at home.

Closets by McKenry

201 Center Park Drive, #1070 Knoxville, TN 37922

865.249.6382

ClosetsByMcKenry.com

THE WOMEN’S FUND was founded in 2011 by a group of philanthropic women desiring to address the lack of opportunities for underserved women and girls in East Tennessee. They quickly organized around the VISION of “every woman selfsustaining.” In February of that same year, the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee became an incorporated fund of the East Tennessee Foundation, quickly raising 2 million dollars from which grant making opportunities were outlined to fuel the vision. By 2015, the Board of Directors elected to become a supporting organization of ETF, becoming a 501(c)(3) public, nonprofit organization. With a focus on collaboration, education, and advocacy with their nonprofit beneficiaries, WFET became a premier source of hope and funding for those who need it most in this region.

“When you invest in a woman, you invest in a family, a community, and, ultimately, a region.”

How Does the Women's Fund Work?

Pooling financial gifts allows donors to maximize their impact. WFET's approach involves understanding the specific needs of women and girls in the region and identifying targeted funding areas with lasting effects by actively advocating for change, addressing issues such as violence against women and barriers to education. Through rigorous research, collaboration, vetting, and agency development, WFET is able to enhance the capacity of organizations to create meaningful change in overcoming key obstacles to self-sustainability for low-income women and girls.

By focusing on “Access to Education (with Mentoring)” to guide funding recommendations, and by tapping into the collective strength of the Tennessee Women’s Fund Alliance (TWFA) and the national Women’s Funding Network (WFN), WFET shows that their rigorous analysis of investments is able to ensure accountability and measure success.

Carefully selected organizations that work to change the discouraging narrative that serves as a barrier to education for women and girls into a cultural mindset that every woman and girl deserves to make the most of herself by taking advantage of opportunities to further her education is key.

Advocacy

Their Mission:

The Women’s Fund is a catalyst to transform the lives of low-income women and girls in East Tennessee.

WAYS TO HELP:

YOU can get involved and support the WFET mission

• Attend one of the Women's Fund of East Tennessee events.

• Volunteer at one of WFET's annual events.

• Donate - WFET relies on giving to support the network/grant making, advocacy, awareness and operations programs that keep the Women’s Fund strong, resourceful, and impactful until the endowment is self-sufficient.

Thank you for Helping WFET Help Her!

The Women’s Fund of East Tennessee, along with other women’s funds across the globe, have discovered high donor satisfaction and significant outcomes by collectively pooling resources, conducting research, developing collaborative projects, and providing critical financial power and advocacy to help low-income women and girls. WFET works daily to find solutions to family and community challenges such as access to education, job training, poverty, violence against women, and many other issues serving as barriers to self-sustainability.

Women’s Fund of East Tennessee 129 S. Gay Street, #2 • Knoxville, TN 37902 423.504.8808 WomensFundETN.org

“What a privilege to join others in service to the amazing women and girls of our communities in East Tennessee! Working collaboratively with other non-profits is a unique and effective approach, and advocating for change is my favorite part of the work we do at the Women’s Fund.”

- Susie Whitener, Women’s Fund 2024 Board Chair

Custom Pull-Out Shelves for More Space, More Access, and More

Custom Solutions

ShelfGenie custom pull-out shelves are the best way to eliminate common frustrations in the kitchen, pantry, and bath. Our design will help fully utilize your space, and our shelves pull out the full depth of your cabinets so you can see, reach, and retrieve items with ease. Custom design, sturdy wood construction, quiet rails that hold up to 100 pounds per shelf, and professional installation - all backed by a lifetime guarantee - will ensure your satisfaction.

Your Experience

Getting personalized attention from the ShelfGenie team is easy. Here’s what you can expect from our custom design process.

• Free Design Consultation: Work with a ShelfGenie designer to create a custom solution to solve your home pain points, eyesores, and trouble areas.

• Custom Solution: Your personal designer will present a design plan built just for you and your needs and show you a 3D-rendered plan of what your future home will look like.

• Professional Installation: We handle it all. After measurements are taken and your products are hand-crafted, your installer comes to your home and installs everything for you in one day.

Schedule your free design consultation today! One of our talented ShelfGenie designers will come to your home and create a design plan customized just for you - no obligation required. Call us at 865-409-1197 or sign up online at ShelfGenie.com.

Fall Festivals for a Perfect Weekend Getaway

BY ANNETTE MOREJON, OWNER OF TRAVELER’S CAFFE

CRISP AIR, GOLDEN leaves, and cozy sweaters - it’s no wonder fall is the favorite season for so many. While Pumpkin Spice Lattes may steal the spotlight, autumn has far more to offer. From vibrant harvest festivals to charming small-town celebrations, this is the time of year when communities across the country come alive with traditions, flavors, and festivities that make the season unforgettable.

One of my favorite things about fall is visiting some of the great festivals that take place every year in towns across the U.S. For most, fall is a magical time of year with colorful landscapes and much awaited cooler temperatures. It’s also harvest time when many delicious fruits and veggies are at their peak, many of which become the main attraction at fall festivals throughout. But the months of September through November are also perfect travel months as the weather tends to be just right and certainly more enjoyable for outdoor activities, airfares usually drop, and hotels also offer shoulder season (before and after peak) discounts. My recommendation for this fall is to plan a weekend getaway where you can experience a local festival, visit some beautiful parts of the country, enjoy the dramatic fall foliage, and even take advantage of those shoulder season discounts all in one!

Here’s my list of some fun festivals to consider as part of a weekend getaway away from home:

New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival: October 25, Laconia, NH Includes a 34 foot tower of jack-o-lanterns, a zombie walk, horse-drawn hay rides, and pumpkin bowling. Combine this with Boston for some history and great food and Salem, MA, for a witch tour at night. NHPumpkinFestival.com

Sonoma County Harvest Fair: October 11, Sonoma, CA Sample more than 100 wines, locally crafted beers and ciders, and some of the county’s best specialty foods. Arrive in San Francisco, visit the city, and hit some local wineries in between. HarvestFair.org

National Apple Harvest Festival: October 4-5 and 11-12, Arendtsville, PA Great place to sample all things apple and enjoy the demonstrations, contests, arts and crafts, and much more. Held in the middle of “apple country” but close to Harrisburg and Gettysburg, which are two great places to also visit while here. AppleHarvest.com

Harvest on the Harbor: October 30 - November 1, Portland, ME The area’s best foods and drinks are brought together with a series of food events, such as demonstrations, tastings, competitions, etc. Portland is a destination all on its own, but also visit the coastline, which makes for amazing picture stops. HarvestontheHarbor.com

Trailing of the Sheep Festival: October 8-12, Ketchum/Hailey, ID The main attraction here is herding of the sheep as they work their way towards their winter pastures, but there is also music, a folklife fair, a wool fest, and cooking and art demonstrations and classes. Nearby is Sun Valley and its mountains, where you can also participate in plenty of outdoor activities. TrailingoftheSheep.org By the way, I didn’t mention Oktoberfests in the list as there are too many around the U.S. to name. If you’re traveling somewhere else in October, do a Google search as you may find one near you throughout the month.

If you want to head out of the country instead this fall, there are also some neat festivals and events taking place just about anywhere. In Paris, you have the White Night (or Nuit Blanche) on October 4, which allows free admission to many museums, lots of nighttime festivities, and free transportation all night long. In Italy, you have the Alba White Truffle Festival going on between October 11 and December 8, and in parts of Latin America (such as Mexico and Bolivia), you have All Saints Day or the Day of the Dead celebrations between October 31 and November 2. The list goes on!

Whether you’re curious about one of these festivals for a quick getaway or prefer to take an international vacation, get traveling this fall and take advantage of the marvels (and discounts) of this fabulous season!

Our Pursuit of Happiness

BY DR. JIM BAILEY

YEARS

AGO, a friend helped me revamp my website. Early in our conversation, he asked, “What is the common theme for people who come to you for coaching services?” I responded, “Pain. People come to me because they are stuck in uncomfortable situations, and they hope I can help them find a way out of their discomfort.”

It’s an aspect of our modern lives that we look to “experts” for answers and relief from the pains of human life. Some, like me, even have the audacity to hang out a sign or write a book proposing to have those answers. A challenge faced by human services professionals is handling the expectations of those you serve. But helping someone find answers doesn’t ensure that she or he will also find relief.

History shows we Americans have a distinctive record for pursuing solutions to our discontent. In 1831, Alexis de Tocqueville, a Frenchman, visited America and found people “demoralized by their relentless pursuit of happiness.” In his book Democracy in America, he noted, “It is a strange thing to see with what sort of feverish ardour [enthusiasm] Americans pursue well-being and how

they show themselves constantly tormented by a vague fear of not having chosen the shortest route that can lead to it.”

The pursuit of happiness, it would seem, isn’t simply one of the “unalienable rights endowed by the Creator” as it says in the Declaration of Independence; it is the American reality. This being the case, the question an honest and self-aware professional must ask themselves is, “What capacity do I have to help a client find lasting answers to the causes of their discomfort?”

On the other hand, the person seeking relief should ask, “Do I have realistic expectations about what this person can do to help me?”

In their book Why We Are Restless: On the Modern Quest for Contentment, Benjamin and Jenna Storey examine the roots and possible answers to our societal unease from the differing perspectives of several philosophers: Michel de Montaigne, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Blaise Pascal. (Please note: Philosophy is not my area of expertise, so I apologize for any errors in my understanding, especially to those who know and/or love it.)

Michel de Montaigne, the Storeys say, proposed we need to learn to practice internal contentment rather than pursuing it

through external means. Rousseau hypothesized that our situation could be redeemed by going “all in” in humanistic service to something outside ourselves. And Pascal reasoned that what we ultimately long for is something transcendent - truth, justice, love, eternity, and ultimately God.

De Montaigne’s conclusion mimics eastern religions and is currently popularized by the trends toward “mindfulness” and “being present.” Self-awareness and being content with what we have are undoubtedly important parts of the contentment question, but de Montaigne believed an individual had sufficient inner resources to define their own means to contentment. If that were the case, why do so many of us seek help from someone else? Ironically, on my website, you’ll see I position myself as a guide who understands you, your goals, and the work world from an objective perspective. My experiential bias is that we can rarely (if ever) fix ourselves by ourselves.

Rousseau pursued solitude, serving society, good citizenship, individualism, the pursuit of knowledge, and family as ways to connect with something deeper within himself. He eventually found each of these to be inadequate for attaining contentment. His family was dysfunctional, his friendships fell apart, civic service brought no lasting change, and his pursuit of knowledge brought him no rest. Even solitude brought no lasting answer to his discontent.

Both Rousseau’s and de Montaigne’s approaches take for granted that the solutions to our discontent may be found within ourselves or within human affairs, but their pursuit of happiness by those means ultimately led to discontent. To this, the Storeys offer the contrast of Blaise Pascal, who said the reason for our discontent is that the things we look to are ultimately inadequate to quiet our souls. In fact, Pascal would say that human beings are caught in a dilemma - while we can aspire to the things that would bring us contentment, our own ability to secure those things is ridiculously limited. We are each in a sense, starving and locked in a cage, eyeing delicious food on a plate that’s just beyond our reach.

C.S. Lewis said, “There are all sorts of things in this world that offer to give it [contentment] to you, but they never quite keep their promise… If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.” Ultimately, the Storeys argue that the philosophy we Americans have inherited, despite pretending to let us live as we please, produces remarkably consistent and unhappy lives. Why We Are Restless isn’t an easy read, but it makes the case that finding true contentment requires rethinking our most basic assumptions about happiness.

Selling Secrets You Can’t

Afford

to Miss

WHEN I FIRST ventured into the real estate industry 20 years ago, my goal was simple: to help sellers avoid the headaches so often tied to selling a home. Throughout the years, I’ve not only helped countless clients reduce stress, but I’ve also gained valuable insights into how to sell homes for the highest price in the shortest amount of time.

Now, I’ve gathered that knowledge into one resource designed to help you. In this book, I’m sharing “Selling Secrets You Can’t Afford to Miss” - a collection of proven strategies and insider advice to guide you through every step of the selling process.

My goal is to help you have the best possible home-selling experience. That means selling quickly, for top dollar and without unnecessary stress. Inside, you’ll discover:

• Secret strategies to help you sell your home for more money

• Marketing techniques used by top agents to attract serious buyers

• Tips to appeal to today’s buyers and stand out in a competitive market

• Expert advice to help you avoid common mistakes and costly delays

Whether this is your first time selling or your fifth, these strategies will give you the edge you need to achieve your ultimate real estate goals.

Nancy is the best in the business. She gives great advice and responds promptly to any and all questions. She has sold 2 houses for us over the last few years with the first one being in a really tough market. We wouldn’t think of using anyone else and couldn’t have asked for a more positive experience. When we move back to the Knoxville area we will definitely be calling on her to find us our forever home.

UNDERCONTRACT

STYX TO ROCK KNOXVILLE

Lawrence Gowan Talks Tour, Fans, and New Music

CLASSIC

IN CONCERT • TENNESSEE VALLEY FAIR • SEPTEMBER 12TH

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

ROCK icons Styx are proving the power of timeless music as they roll across North America on their latest tour. With more than 50 years of hits behind them augmented with a new, recently released album, Circling from Above, the band is showing no signs of slowing down. And Knoxville fans will get to experience it all when Styx headlines the Tennessee Valley Fair next month.

Lawrence Gowan, the band’s charismatic frontman and keyboardist since 1999, spoke with Boomerocity during a stop near Seattle. Despite the demanding schedule - 8 shows in 10 daysGowan was as lively, funny, and sharp as ever.

“If this rock and roll thing doesn’t work out in the next 25 years,” he quipped, “we’re thinking of packing it in.”

It’s clear the music is still working - and connecting - with multiple generations. “The response has been overwhelming,” he said. “Some fans have had this music in their lives for over half a century, and then there are the people - the newer faithful who are like under 40 - and they have gravitated toward classic rock with all of the fervor and enthusiasm that we did growing up with it. We see that on a nightly basis, and there’s something definitely to be extremely grateful for every day that we see that.”

Helping bridge that generational gap are moments like the nowiconic South Park parody of “Come Sail Away.” Gowan embraces the humor. “I’m happy to admit that I’d say it’s 1% our effort and 99% South Park influence. Hey, whatever gets them through the door, right?” he laughed.

Gowan believes the longevity of Styx - and classic rock overallcomes down to one thing: melody. “What I think has made it last so much is, first of all, I still think that once melodies are released onto the planet, once a memorable melody is out there, it’s not going to go away. Once they’re ingrained in your mind and in your spirit, they’re there for good. Now, if you couple that with lyrics where you can actually put yourself into the narrative of a piece of music, I think that doubles down on the effect, and I think that’s probably the main reason.”

That emotional bond spans generations. “I’d say 55% are people that have been with it right from the beginning and about 45% on average. Just as I’m looking out at the crowd, just either that or, you know, I do make the point, it’s either that or they’ve had some amazing work done. Could be a little bit of that.”

The band has recently released a new album titled Circling from Above, and Gowan says it’s already generating buzz. “We’ll be rehearsing a couple more songs from it this afternoon in our soundcheck. If I can judge by our crew’s reaction to it, and the people that listened to it in the last few days, I’d say that there’s a good percentage of people out there that are going to enjoy it. There, I’ve said it.”

Knoxville fans can expect something extra special when the band hits town. “We’re performing The Grand Illusion album in its entirety,” Gowan revealed. “We did it earlier this year in Vegas and it went over fantastically. We’ll do a good series of hits…”

When asked about solo projects, Gowan shared that he has a completed solo album ready to go but isn’t rushing to release it, indicating that he would need six months to a year to properly promote it. He concluded, “I feel far more inclined to put out a new Styx record and be part of that than to put out another solo work at this time.”

The conversation also touched on the future of music - particularly the role of AI in content creation and catalog management.

“There are going to be some great applications,” Gowan admitted, “but it doesn’t have the soul. You can mimic tone and phrasing, but it still lacks that human connection.”

He’s more optimistic about AI’s role in tracking music usage and ensuring artists are paid fairly. “That would be wonderful,” he said.

As for the growing trend of legacy artists selling their catalogs, Gowan understands the business side but has mixed feelings. “Songs can then be misrepresented or find themselves used in inappropriate places,” he cautioned. “The melodies themselves, I hope, would transcend any misapplication in the short term.”

When Styx takes the stage in Knoxville next month, fans can expect not just a concert, but a celebration of music, memories, and a band that continues to sail ahead with style and purpose.

Watch the interview in its entirety at Boomerocity. com or its YouTube channel or listen on your favorite podcast platform.

Launched in 2009, Randy’s Boomerocity

The Fan Experience has more than 500 positive, sincere, one-on-one interview conversations that show fans the true heart of the Baby Boomer generation of musicians, entertainers, and their associates, as well as today’s icons, influencers, and up-and-comers in music.

Locally owned and operated | Live team

Nourish the Soul Week: Flowers and Food for the Heart

THIS SEPTEMBER,

Random Acts of Flowers is proud to host its 3rd annual Nourish the Soul Week, a heartfelt initiative in partnership with Mobile Meals during Hunger Action Month. Taking place the last week of September, this collaboration brings together healthy meals and beautiful flowers to uplift the lives of homebound seniors across our community.

Research shows that 6 out of 10 adults in the U.S. live with chronic disease or physical limitations that impact their daily function and quality of life. For many seniors with limited financial resources and social support, Mobile Meals provides a lifeline, ensuring access to nutritious food that supports healing, strength, and overall well-being. RAF complements this vital service by delivering repurposed floral arrangements that brighten spirits and encourage emotional wellness. These deliveries do more than decorate a room - they transform lives. Emotional well-being is deeply connected to physical health, especially in older adults. A simple bouquet can spark joy, stimulate appetite, and remind recipients that they are seen, valued, and cared for by their community. Each arrangement is a symbol of collective compassion, made possible by floral donors, financial supporters, and dedicated volunteers.

“The smiles and excitement these flowers create not only brighten our homebound clients’ day but also make the experience even more meaningful for the volunteers who deliver them.”

The impact is deeply felt. Sarah Kreel of Mobile Meals shares, “The smiles and excitement these flowers create not only brighten our homebound clients’ day but also make the experience even more meaningful for the volunteers who deliver them.” Volunteer Jimmy added, “It’s been such a gloomy old day and I get to bring bright, happy flowers. You hit it just right!” And one grateful daughter shared, “My mother doesn’t smile much these days, but being able to see her through the Ring camera smiling made me so happy. This random act of kindness was felt all the way in Cincinnati, Ohio.”

Together, RAF and Mobile Meals are nourishing bodies and souls. Want to get involved? Whether you have flowers to donate, time to volunteer, or resources to share, there’s a place for you at Random Acts of Flowers. Together, we can continue to brighten lives, one bouquet at a time. To learn more, visit RandomActsofFlowers.org.

SEPTEMBER

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

September is Hunger Action Month for Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee. Visit SecondHarvestETN.org for information on how to give and get involved.

Tennessee Valley Fair at the Chilhowee Park & Expo Center through the 14th.

Tavern Notes live music at the Maker Exchange from 7 to 9 pm Fridays through the 26th. To see who is playing, visit MakerExchangeKnox.com/happenings.

Home Runs & Home Teams: A History of the National Pastime in Tennessee at the East Tennessee History Center through the 28th.

Bunny Tales: A Garden Art Exhibit at UT Gardens through late September.

Exhibition: Sleep Cycle by Lauren Adams at the Dogwood Gallery (123 W Jackson Ave) through October 17th.

Dirty Ones - The People of GaduhviTsu’Ni’Ga’Da’Ha “What does it mean to be a Cherokee person?” at The UT Downtown Gallery (next door to the Emporium) through October 18th.

SEPTEMBER 7

Twilight at Ijams at Ijams Nature Center from 6 to 9 pm.

SEPTEMBER 9

Preschool Story Thyme at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 to 11 am. Every Tuesday through October.

Paw Patrol Live: A Mighty Adventure at the Civic Auditorium at 6 pm. Also the 10th at 6 pm.

Concerts on the Square: Jazz Tuesdays in Market Square at 7 pm. Free! Christone “Kingfish” Ingram at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 11

Big Ears Festival 2026 (March 26-29) passes go on sale at 9 am. Visit BigEarsFestival.org for lineup and tickets.

The History Parlor at the East Tennessee History Center at 10 am. Free and open to the public. Visit EastTNHistory.org.

James McMurtry at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm. Bats & Moths at Ijams Nature Center from 8 to 10:30 pm. Also the 12th, 19th, 20th, 24th at 7:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 12

2nd annual East Tennessee Homestead Festival at the Hardin Valley Event Center. Live demonstrations (butchering, canning, livestock care & more), workshops, kidsteaders program, vendors, food trucks, kids zone, and activities. For info visit EastTNHomesteadAlliance.com. Also the 13th. Winnie the Pooh by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre through the 28th. For show times and tickets visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com.

Cherokee Caverns Movie in the Cave: Hocus Pocus at Historic Cherokee Caverns. Show times are 6:00 & 8:00. Chairs will be provided, or bring a small camp chair and blanket. Selfguided tours of the cave available 30 minutes before and after the showing. Also the 13th at 11:00, 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00.

Scruffy City Soirée at The Mill & Mine from 6 to 10 pm. Whiskey pull, live auction, exquisite food, music by the Tennessee Sheiks, and more. A benefit for Knox Heritage to support advocacy efforts, educational programs, and architectural preservation initiatives.

Legends Concert Series: Landslide - A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center at 7 pm.

Matt Mathews: Boujee on a Budget Tour at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 & 9:30 pm.

Movies Under the Stars: Where the Wild Things Are at Ijams Nature Center. Doors open at 7 pm, movie begins at dark.

The Fab Four: USA Meets the Beatles 60th Anniversary Concert at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Movies at the Museums - The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring at Marble Springs State Historic Site at 8 pm.

SEPTEMBER 13

Early Morning Birding: Fall Migration at Ijams Nature Center at 8 am. Also the 20th.

Little History Lesson: Sunsphere at the Sunsphere Welcome Center (3rd floor) from 9 to 10 am. Learn about the 1982 World’s Fair and explore history through stories, games, crafts, and examining artifacts. Run for the Scrubs 5K at Victor Ashe Park from 9 to 11 am.

Volunteer Litter Pick Up at Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 9 am to noon. Volunteer at KnoxGarden.org. Car & Craft Festival in downtown Lenoir City from 10 am to 2 pm. Storytelling at Ijams Nature Center Playscape at 10 am. Also the 20th & 27th and October 4th. UT Vols vs. Georgia Bulldogs at Neyland Stadium at 3:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 14

Ijams Nature Center Caving Trip at Meads Quarry from noon to 2:30 pm. Farragut Art Fest at the Farragut Community Center from 1 to 3 pm. Free outdoor fun for every young art lover!

Pawprints: Past & Present at the MabryHazen House from 1 to 4 pm. A program with the Humane Society explores animal/ human companions. Free to the public!

Second Sunday Art Activity at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 1 to 4 pm. Hands-on art for K-6th grade.

Second Sunday Docent Tour at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 2 to 3 pm.

For Knoxville’s andMarketFarmers’dates seelocations, page39

Dancers Studio presents Children in the Arts: “The Arts Tell My Story” at the World’s Fair Park Amphitheatre at 2:30 pm. Part of the Penny4Arts program; tickets for children and students cost one penny.

Rising Appalachia at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 16

History Hour featuring speaker Wanda Sobieski from the Knoxville Women’s Suffrage Coalition at the Farragut Museum from 11 am to noon. Free!

Swing for Joy golf tournament at Egwani Farms from 1 to 7 pm. A benefit for the Joy of Music School.

Concerts on the Square: Jazz Tuesdays in Market Square at 7 pm. Free!

SEPTEMBER 17

Sense and Sensibility at the Clarence Brown Theatre through October 5th. See ClarenceBrownTheatre.com for show times and tickets.

Leo Kottke at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 18

Concerts on the Square: Square on the Square in Market Square at 7 pm. Learn how to square dance and dance the night away!

Knoxville Choral Society presents Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 19th. Napoleon Dynamite Live! at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

SEPTEMBER 19

Empowered Women Empowering Women Conference hosted by Dr. Sheldon Hudson at The Relix (1208 N Central Street). Benefiting Safe Haven, a “fresh start” sanctuary for women with children. For info and tickets visit SimplySheldon.com. Also the 20th.

Family Campout at McFee Park. Sleep under the stars with Farragut Parks & Recreation. Family games, a campfire, and more! Dinner and breakfast included; bring your own tent and sleeping bags. Check-in at 4 pm and checkout is 10 am the next morning.

Breath of Roses Gala at Jackson Terminal at 7 pm. A benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. For info visit events.cff.org/rosesgala.

Movies at the Museums - Smokey and the Bandit at Blount Mansion at 8 pm.

SEPTEMBER 20

Plein Air Art Event in Great Smoky Mountains National Park through the 27th. For info visit gsmit.org/pleinair.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Zoo Knoxville at 9 am.

Tree Walk: Tree Health at Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 9 to 11 am.

THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • PEOPLE TO SEE

Sevier Day 280th at Marble Springs State Historic Site from 10 am to 4 pm.

Celebrating John Sevier’s 280th birthday with games, music, lectures, 18th century demonstrations including blacksmithing, saltmaking, cooking, crafts, and more. Free!

UT Vols vs. UAB Blazers at Neyland Stadium at 12:45 pm.

Fall Fungi ID: Beginner Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 4 pm. Also October 4th at 2 pm.

SEPTEMBER 21

Old City Market on West Jackson Avenue from 11 am to 4 pm.

20th annual International Food Festival at World’s Fair Park from 11 am to 5 pm. Food, culture, and community with a diverse range of cuisines, fun activities, and entertainment.

East Tennessee Bluegrass Association Monthly Jam at Ijams Nature Center from 2 to 5 pm.

SEPTEMBER 23

Concerts on the Square: Jazz Tuesdays in Market Square at 7 pm. Free!

Compound Butters Workshop at The Spice & Tea Exchange at 7:30 pm. Call 865-985-0913 to reserve your spot.

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 24

St. Paul & The Broken Bones at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Mannequin Pussy at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

SEPTEMBER 25

Melodies with Meaning at Crescent Bend from 6 to 9 pm. A night for celebrating and uplifting youth girls through the power of song and movement. A benefit for Girls on the Run of Greater Knoxville.

Parker McCollum at Food City Center’s Thompson-Boling Arena at 7:30 pm.

Walking Across Egypt by WordPlayers Theatre Company at Erin Presbyterian Church through October 5th. Thursday and Friday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 26

3rd annual Women in Tech Expo: Grow Better Together at the Convention Center from 9 am to 6 pm.

Greek Fest at St. George Greek Orthodox Church (4070 Kingston Pike) from 11 am to 10 pm. Also the 27th from 11 am to 10 pm and 28th from 11 am to 5 pm.

One Knoxville Soccer Club vs. Charlotte Independence at Covenant Health Park at 6:30 pm.

Movies Under the Stars: The Crow at Ijams Nature Center. Doors open at 7 pm, movie begins at dark.

The Black Jacket Symphony: An Evening of Yacht Rock at the Civic Auditorium at 7:30 pm.

GO! Contemporary Dance Works at Worlds Fair Park at 8 pm.

ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience 30th Anniversary Tour at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

SEPTEMBER 27

Greater Knoxville Heart Walk at Zoo Knoxville from 8:30 to 10 am. A benefit for the American Heart Association. HoLa Festival at Worlds’ Fair Park from 4 to 10 pm. Live music, dancing, draft beer, home-cooked food, and artisan craft vendors. Also the 28th from 11 am to 6 pm plus the Parade of Nations, educational Hispanic Heritage booths, children’s activities, and community resources.

SEPTEMBER 28

Bridges to Bluffs 10K Swim along the Tennessee River at 9 am.

Knoxville Symphony Chamber Classics Series: Mozart & More at the Bijou Theatre at 2:30 pm.

Green Thumb Gala at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 6 to 9 pm. Music, food, silent & live auctions to benefit the Garden.

Molly Tuttle at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

SEPTEMBER 29

Reflections and Infusion Stained Glass Workshop at The Spice & Tea Exchange at 6 pm. Call 865-985-0913 to reserve your spot.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

OCTOBER 1

One Knoxville Soccer Club vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves at Covenant Health Park at 6:30 pm.

Wilderado at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

OCTOBER 2

Disney on Ice: Mickey’s Search Party at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm. Also the 3rd-5th. Penelope Road at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

OCTOBER 3

Lisa Soland’s PAT - the one-person play on the life of Coach Pat Summitt at the Old City Performing Arts Center through the 26th. See page 12 for more information.

First Friday on Market Square, Gay Street, The Old City, and Downtown North beginning at 5 pm.

Old City First Friday Market on West Jackson Avenue from 5 to 9 pm. Bike with a Naturalist at Ijams Nature Center from 6 to 8 pm.

Knox Pride Fest Parade on Gay Street from 6 to 8 pm.

Kerbela Shriners Circus at Food City Center’s Thompson-Boling Arena at 7 pm.

Also the 4th at 1 & 7 pm and 5th at 1 & 7 pm.

Movies Under the Stars: Ernest Scared Stupid and Arachnophobia at Ijams Nature Center. Doors open at 7 pm, movie begins at dark.

Sunset Concert Series: Steve Kaufman at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center at 7 pm.

Yonder Mountain String Band at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

OCTOBER 4

12th annual Race for the Summitt 5K at Tyson Park at 9 am. A benefit for the Pat Summitt Foundation.

Totally Rad Vintage Fest at the World’s Fair Exhibition Hall from 10 am to 5 pm. A vintage event with vendors and activities.

Cherokee Caverns Movie in the Cave: The Nightmare Before Christmas at Historic Cherokee Caverns. Show times are 11:00, 12:45, 2:30, 4:15, 6:00 & 7:45. Chairs will be provided, or bring a small camp chair and blanket. Self-guided tours available 30 minutes before and after the showing. Knox Pride Fest at World’s Fair Park from noon to 8 pm.

Henry Cho at the Tennessee Theatre at 5 & 8 pm.

OCTOBER 5

Mighty Musical Monday featuring Freddie Brabson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ at the Tennessee Theatre at noon. Free! Mary Chapin Carpenter and Brandy Clark at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.

OCTOBER 6

Mighty Musical Monday featuring Freddie Brabson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, joined by Maggie Tharp the Band, at the Tennessee Theatre at noon. Free!

OCTOBER 7

Preschool Story Thyme at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 to 11 am. Every Tuesday through October. Samantha Fish at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

ZZ Top at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

OCTOBER 8

An Acoustic Evening with Rick Springfield and Richard Marx at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Melvins at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

OCTOBER 9

The History Parlor at the East Tennessee History Center at 10 am. Free and open to the public. Visit EastTNHistory.org.

Dan Soder at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.

Zach Top at Food City Center’s ThompsonBoling Arena at 8 pm.

All event dates and times subject to change.

If you would like to receive the Events Calendar in your inbox every month, simply send a request to info@everythingknoxville.com.

You can also go to EverythingKnoxville.com to view the current month’s Events Calendar.

The Ritual of Tailgating

COMPILED BY SUSAN CAFFERTY

AS TENNESSEE BEGINS another college football season, complete with tailgating and game parties, I was curious about how the whole tradition of gathering behind your vehicle with other like-minded fans and family came about. Here is a little history on the subject that I gathered from NCAA.com, CollegeFootballPoll.com, and History.com.

College football’s very first game was between Rutgers University and the College of New Jersey (now Princeton) in 1869. More a mix of rugby and soccer at that time, football wouldn’t get official rules and guidelines until 1876. Newspapers as far back as the 1880s reported that well-heeled fans sipped champagne and enjoyed other refreshments while watching the annual Yale-Princeton Thanksgiving game in New York from the luxury of horsedrawn coaches parked on the sidelines. In 1906, when automobile registrations surpassed 100,000 for the first time, numerous fans traveled to Connecticut for the Harvard-Yale game, including motorists who indulged in what might be the first actual pre-game tailgate. Beginning in the 1930s, wood-sided station wagons let fans use the rear fold-down tailgate for seats or as a buffet table as pre-game parties became increasingly known as “tailgating.” Portable grills and plastic coolers began being mass produced in the 1950s and the rest, as they say, is history.

Tailgating continues to be a college football tradition and has become such an integral part of the fabric of America that Tonya Williams Bradford, PhD, an associate professor of marketing and Inclusive Excellence Term Chair professor (2021-2024) at UCI (University of California Irvine) Paul Merage School of Business, co-authored a study titled “A Cultural Analysis of Tailgating.” No, really!

“Tailgates are seen as an essential part of the game-day

Broccoli Salad

COURTESY OF “COOKIN’ SAVVY” ON CULINARY.NET SERVINGS: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 medium heads broccoli

• 2 apples

• lemon juice

• 1 carrot

• 1 cup blueberries

• 1 cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup sunflower seeds

• 1 cup pecans

• 1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces

Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1/3 cup milk

• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2/3 cup sugar

• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

Directions:

Columbia University Class of 1887 Freshman Football Team

experience,” states Dr. Bradford. “There is… the fandom with football that is not as prevalent with other sports - particularly with collegiate sports. There are often multi-generation familial relationships with universities and teams, which result in annual pilgrimages of alums to return home and enact tailgate rituals.

“But in our studies, we’ve found that many [fans] confessed that the act of tailgating felt like their opportunity to give a little mojo to their home team,” continues Dr. Bradford. “In our research, we heard it so many times that we realized this must be a thing: Fans can’t necessarily play the sport, but they can support their teams in a tangible, visible way so that the team will know they’re there for them.”

To say all this a little more informally, tailgating began as football became more popular and people started traveling to get to the games, and it continues as a bonding connection with friends and family to show support for your favorite team. Not to mention all the fun and great food traditions!

Here are a few recipes from Family Features that can be added to your next game-day party or tailgate - tasty sides to please any

Coarsely chop broccoli and place in large bowl. Coarsely chop apples and brush with lemon juice to prevent browning; add to bowl. Shred carrot and add to bowl with blueberries, cranberries, sunflower seeds, pecans, and bacon. For dressing: Mix mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and poppy seeds. Pour over broccoli salad and mix well.

Hamburger Baked Beans

COURTESY OF BUSH’S BAKED BEANS (BUSHBEANS.COM)

SERVINGS: 4

Ingredients:

• 1/2-1 pound ground beef

• 1/2 small onion, diced

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 teaspoon spicy mustard

• 28 ounces Bush’s Original Baked Beans

Directions:

In skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion. Drain fat. Add ketchup, mustard, and baked beans. Stir together until heated through.

Easy Lemon Blueberry Bars

COURTESY OF “COOKIN’ SAVVY” ON CULINARY.NET

SERVINGS: 24-25 BARS

Ingredients:

• 1 stick butter, melted

• 1 box lemon cake mix

• 2 eggs

• 1/3 cup fresh blueberries

• 2/3 cup white chocolate chips, divided

• 1/3 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

Heat oven to 350º F. In bowl, combine butter, cake mix, eggs, blueberries, 1/3 cup white chocolate chips, and pecans. Butter 7x11 inch pan (a 9x9 will work also) and spread mixture evenly into pan. Bake 30-35 minutes. Let cool, then melt remaining white chocolate chips and drizzle over bars. Tip: If melted white chocolate chips are too thick, add a little oil before drizzling.

Mini Corn Dog Bites

ADAPTED FROM WILTON SERVINGS: 24+ BITES

Ingredients:

• 1 package all-beef bun-length hot dogs

• 1 cup flour

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 stick butter, melted

• 1 cup milk

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 2 eggs

Dipping Sauce:

• 2/3 cup sour cream

• 3 tablespoons Dijon Mustard

• 2 tablespoons honey

Directions:

Heat oven 375°F. Prepare a muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. Cut each hot dog into six pieces. In large bowl, whisk flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Then in medium bowl, whisk melted butter, milk, sour cream, and eggs. Combine butter mixture with flour mixture. Fill each muffin cavity halfway with batter. Place one hot dog piece in center of each cavity. Bake 14-16 minutes. Cool completely.

SEED GROWN Sunflowers: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

SUBMITTED BY CAMILLE NEWSOM, RESEARCH COORDINATOR AT UT GARDENS, JACKSON

WHAT IS YOUR favorite flower? One common answer is the sunflower ( Helianthus annuus Although they are popular for commercial bouquets, some might not realize how easy they are to grow from seed.

Sunflowers are native to much of North America. They are an important agriculture crop with more than one million acres grown in the United States each year, primarily for oil and bird seed. The seeds are inexpensive and easy to find at garden centers and in seed catalogues.

Plant breeders have developed varieties in a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes. They can be white, green, pink, yellow, orange, red, bronze, or brown with heights ranging from a mere 20 inches tall up to 20 feet or more. A few favorites include ‘Autumn Beauty,’ ‘Concert Bell,’ ‘Earth Walker,’ and ‘Mammoth.’ Some sunflowers branch, producing many flowers on each plant, and others put their energy into producing one single large flower.

Not only are sunflowers a favorite of many people but they are also popular with wildlife. Watch one for a few minutes, and you will see bees, butterflies, and other insects that drink nectar and gather pollen. After pollination, the petals dry up, the flowerheads hang down, and seeds mature. If left intact, these will attract birds like goldfinch, titmice, and chickadees to the garden. Collect some of the seeds, and you can keep growing them for years to come.

Sunflowers attract pollinators and provide feed for birds. Collect the seeds and keep sunflowers growing in your garden or field for years to come.

To ensure ample pollen and fertile seed production, be sure to choose “open pollinated” varieties. Many hybridized introductions are pollenless and sterile to accommodate the cut flower industry. In Tennessee, sunflowers can be grown from May through October as long as it is frost free. Seeds can be directly sown in the ground or started in containers and carefully transplanted once their true leaves emerge. When starting seeds in the ground, it’s a good idea to plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep in loose soil and cover the planting area with something that will keep the birds and squirrels from digging them up.

Sunflowers grow best in full sun and thrive in poor to average garden soil. They are drought tolerant once established but perform their best with regular watering. Planting in succession, about every two weeks, will give you continuous blooms. Taller varieties may benefit from staking if planted in areas exposed to a lot of wind, but most are strong enough to stand on their own.

Seed grown sunflowers are great for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. You can find them growing at UT Gardens in Jackson and in the Knoxville kitchen garden and trial beds, typically in bloom July through August.

The UT Gardens includes plant collections located in Knoxville, Crossville, and Jackson, Tennessee. Designated as the official botanical garden for the State of Tennessee, the UT Gardens are part of the UT Institute of Agriculture. The Gardens’ mission is to foster appreciation, education, and stewardship of plants through garden displays, educational programs, and research trials. The Gardens are open during all seasons and free to the public. For more information, visit utgardens.tennessee.edu.

SSeptember in the Garden

BY LISA GRUGIN

URPRISE, I’M still writing the article! I was asked to continue for a while, and I am happy to still have somewhere to talk about gardening. September will hopefully bring us some nice, cool mornings and evenings. These are great times to reevaluate your yard and make plans for next year. What would you like to do differently? Do you need to add some plants or remove some? Write down your ideas while they are fresh in your mind. Here are some other things that you need to do this month:

❀ Do your walk around and check into all the areas that you have ignored while it was hot.

1. Look up to see how trees are faring. Are there broken, damaged, or diseased branches? Do you have oozing spots, sawdust, or a lot of woodpecker holes? How about shelf mushrooms? All of these are indications that a tree is stressed and may have a disease or insect problem. A lot of trees have died this year, so call an arborist if you are concerned.

2. Look down at the ground. Do you have mole tunnels or small tunnel entrances that indicate mole and/or vole problems? Are skunks, possums, and other critters digging up your lawn? Has your lawn suffered from brown patch or other fungal issues? Do you need to amend your soil? Fall is a good time to do some lawn work!

3. Look around and down inside your plants to check for signs of disease and insects. How are annuals and perennials doing? What is going on in your vegetable garden? Are your shrubs showing signs of illness or infestation? Plants that have struggled may need extra help next spring.

❀ Evaluate your vegetable growing successes and failures. Make notes of what varieties you tried and where they were planted, then plan to “crop rotate” next year. This prevents the buildup of diseases in the beds. If your vegetable garden has stopped producing, clean them out and plant fall veggies. You can also add compost, manure, or leaf mold to improve your soil for next year.

❀ Take preventative steps if you have had serious problems with diseases and insects. Don’t compost leaves with insect or fungal problems and don’t leave them in the beds to overwinter. Leaves without problems can be left as compost.

❀ If your annuals look terrible, remove and compost them. Impatiens and begonias

in particular should be pulled before a frost, because they will turn to mush if they freeze. Swap them for cool season annuals like pansies, violas, snapdragons, ornamental cabbage, and kale. Swiss Chard can also add a splash of color.

❀ If you need to divide and/or transplant perennials, September is a good month to do spring blooming or fleshy rooted perennials such as peonies, daylilies, poppies, garden phlox, hostas, and iris. You can also cut back overgrown plants, but do not cut into the crown. That is the layer of new growth close to the soil.

❀ Purchase bulbs while the selection is still good. Keep them in a cool, dry place until it is time to plant them. The planting period here is late September through November.

❀ Get houseplants ready to come back inside by giving them a nice shower and treating them with a systemic insecticide. This prevents uninvited houseguests.

❀ Don’t be embarrassed by plant failure, especially if you are new to the area or are not an experienced gardener.

It happens to everyone. Some things thrive and some don’t, so just roll with it and look at “failures” as an opportunity to try something different! Let me finish with a little info on mums.

1. The colorful balls that you see everywhere this time of year are not perennial mums (which now have the botanical name of Dendranthema). They are hybrids, and they may or may not come back. They may also come back a different color or as dozens of little “mumlets” instead of a single plant. If you want to try to get them to come back, plant in the ground by mid-September so they can get roots down before a freeze. If you want an actual perennial, check your garden center.

2. Mums have a 4-6 week bloom time that is made shorter by heat and longer by cool weather. If your neighbor has a mum that lasts the entire fall, it isn’t real! There are early, mid, and late season bloomers, so buy them when you are ready and then compost them and buy another when they fade.

That’s all for this month. Happy gardening!

DIXIE LEE MARKET

Renaissance Center

12740 Kingston Pike, 37934 Saturdays 9 am - Noon

MARKET SQUARE DOWNTOWN

Wednesdays from 10 am - 1 pm Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm

NEW HARVEST PARK

4775 New Harvest Lane, 37918 Thursdays 3 pm - 6 pm Through September 25

HARDIN VALLEY

Event Center Pavilion

2620 Willow Point Way, 37931 Thursdays 4 pm - 7 pm

EBENEZER ROAD

Ebenezer United Methodist Church 1001 Ebenezer Road, 37923

Tuesdays 3 pm - 6 pm

HISTORIC OAK RIDGE

209 Jackson Square, 37830 Saturdays 8 am - Noon

New Exhibitions Opening

THE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville September 5-27. Most of the works on exhibition will be for sale and may be purchased by visiting in person or the online shop at KnoxAlliance.store.

Givin’ the What For curated by Michael Dickins in the Upper Gallery

Givin’ the What For takes its title from a Southern colloquialism that expresses stern disapproval or a serious reckoning. It’s a phrase rooted in confrontation, calling for accountability and highlighting the weight of one’s actions.

Appalachian Memories: Paintings by Matthew Trinkle in the Atrium

Artist statement excerpts: Appalachian Memories is a body of work inspired by the rich landscapes and diverse wildlife that call the Great Smoky Mountains their home. Through these pieces, I hope to honor the natural beauty, quiet strength, and enduring spirit of the Appalachian landscape and its people. I invite viewers to pause and reflect on their own memories in the Smokies. These experiences shape our bond with the land and remind us why this place is so precious.

by Erika Diamond

This exhibition showcases the work of six women artists - Erika Diamond, J. Leigh Garcia, Katie Hargrave, Stacy Kranitz, Susan Alta Martin, and Liz Trader Williams - living and working in Southern Appalachia. Using a mixture of media and materials, these artists tackle urgent global concerns such as social justice, environmental degradation, personal and collective identity, and political unrest. Givin’ the What For will be on exhibition through November 1. Michael Dickins is an interdisciplinary artist, curator, and gallery director whose work has been exhibited widely across the United States, as well as Istanbul and Berlin. Dickens was recently appointed as director and chief curator of the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston’s School of the Arts in South Carolina.

The Ethiopian: A Collection of Photographs from Ethiopia by Cyndy B. Waters in the Lower Gallery

Cyndy B. Waters was born in Sevierville and has worked as a photographer for the state of Tennessee, an Official Photographer for the 1982 World’s Fair in Knoxville, and operated Paine & Waters Photography, specializing in political PR on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. She has photographed five U.S. presidents. While photographing the opening of Dollywood in 1986, Waters met a Los Angeles film crew, Johnson/Klein Productions, who hired her to photograph Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, Whoopi Goldberg and many other celebrities. In 1995, Waters traveled to Kenya and was overwhelmed by the lack of education, food, and physical care many women and children faced, inspiring her to develop The Orbit Village Project, Inc. Today, the project feeds, cares for and educates approximately 500 children and youth. She has worked between Sevierville and Nairobi, Kenya, for much of the past 29 years, photographing her life and work in Africa. Her work was published in the Federation of American Women’s Clubs Overseas Inspiring Women online magazine in 2020 as one of 16 American women photographers working around the world. She has adopted three Kenyan children, all now adults, and has her first grandchild.

Trinkle is donating 15% of proceeds from this exhibition to Friends of the Smokies, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and preserving the National Park for future generations.

Sheila Letitia: Mindscapes on the North Wall Artist statement excerpts: In the Great Smoky Mountains, the smell of damp moss, the feel of wet sand and mud between my toes, and the incredible, natural beauty everywhere awakened all my senses. The connection of it all; new life, death, and decay. I always return to botanical forms, seeds, flowers, nuts, etc. and how everything is connected psychologically and physically. I create ethereal environments. Much like a kaleidoscope distorts an image into intricate pieces of colorful patterns, I use simple shapes derived from nature and “fracture” them into multifaceted compositions of shifting imagery.

Sheila Letitia graduated with a fine arts degree from the University of Tennessee, and after raising a family, recently returned to painting and drawing.

My Flower Garden by Lynn Fisher in the Display Case Artist statement: As an artist, my pottery is an exploration of the joyful and whimsical connections between nature and the human spirit. Inspired by the vibrant energy of plants and flowers, my pieces are a celebration of the beauty found in the smallest details. I approach each creation with a sense of playfulness, allowing the organic forms of nature to guide the process while infusing my work with a sense of lightheartedness and joy. Through my botanical pottery, I hope to evoke a sense of wonder and whimsy, offering pieces that not only beautify a space but also bring a smile and a moment of happiness to those who encounter them.

These exhibitions will be on display September 5-27 at the Emporium Center, located at 100 S. Gay Street. In September, the Emporium is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm, and September 12, 18, and 26 from 5 to 7 pm for Gallery 1010 openings. For more information, call 865-523-7543 or visit KnoxAlliance.com.

SOUTHERN RAILWAY PASSENGER STATION

CONSTRUCTED IN 1903, this iconic building stands as a testament to the golden age of rail travel. Designed by the renowned architect Frank P. Milburn, celebrated for his work on numerous train stations across the southeastern United States, this structure was commissioned by the Southern Railway as its flagship passenger terminal in Knoxville.

At the height of its operation, the Southern Terminal was a hub of activity, accommodating as many as 26 passenger trains each day. Its platforms echoed with the sounds of steam engines, rolling luggage, and the announcements of arriving and departing trains, linking Knoxville to major cities across the Southeast and beyond.

However, as the 20th century progressed, the expansion of highways, the increasing affordability of automobiles, and the rise of intercity bus and air travel began to undercut the dominance of passenger rail. One by one, routes were discontinued. The end of an era arrived in August 1970, when the last passenger train - a night service train traveling from Birmingham to Washington, D.C. - made its final stop at the station.

For years following its closure, the terminal stood mostly vacant, a once-proud symbol of Knoxville’s railroading heritage left to the passage of time. That changed in 1989, when a major renovation project breathed new life into the structure. Painstakingly restored with an eye toward preserving its historic character, the building was repurposed as office space, blending early 20th century architecture with modern utility.

In the years since, the former train station has seen a variety of new uses. It has served not only as professional office space but also as an elegant event venue, hosting weddings, banquets, and community gatherings. For a time, it even operated as a winery, further showcasing the building’s remarkable adaptability and continued relevance to the city’s cultural life.

Today, this 1903 landmark stands as both a monument to Knoxville’s rich transportation history and a model for successful historic preservation.

The Knox Heritage mission is to protect Knoxville’s unique character for future generations by preserving, restoring, and transforming historically significant structures and places.

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit historic preservation organization, Knox Heritage is chartered by the state of Tennessee and governed by a board of directors.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

9 am - 1 pm at UT Gardens

2518 Jacob Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996

Free Event No Registration Required

HOW SMART IS YOUR YARD?

Explore the Gardens

Water’s Edge

Awesome Compost Native Plants

Lawn to Meadow

Gardening for Wildlife

Ask a Master Gardener

Smart Yards Realtors

Pesticide-Seed Swap

Pre-register here for drawing to win rain barrel, worm bin, native plants, wildflower seeds, and bat box. Must be present to win.

PESTICIDE DROP-OFF RULES

• Household pesticides and herbicides only

• Must be in sizes sold for household use

• Must be in original container (no limit on number of containers)

• No gasoline

• Container must be clean on the outside with no drips

A Brief History of Labor Day

AS MANY of us enjoyed a long weekend commemorating Labor Day, I wanted to share the origin and key events that led to our national holiday honoring the American worker during a difficult period in our history:

At the height of the Industrial Revolution in the late 1800s, many Americans worked 12-hour days in demanding, low paying jobs. Children worked, too, often in harsh and unsafe environments. As manufacturing replaced agriculture as a primary source of employment, labor unions grew more prominent and vocal, leading to formal organization and strikes to protest poor conditions and pay.

Business Note

BY BRETT CAFFERTY

On September 5, 1882, union leaders in New York City organized what’s thought to be the first Labor Day parade as 10,000 union members and tradespeople took unpaid time off to “march” from New York’s City Hall to Union Square to request an eight-hour workday, many carrying signs

Photo by Mirtography

that read “Less Work and More Pay.” Future events turned violent during this period, including the “Haymarket Incident” that began May 1, 1886, when thousands of Chicago workers took to the streets to demand an eight-hour workday. The demonstration lasted for days, and on May 4, a bomb was set off, killing seven police officers and eight civilians. Now known as “International Workers’ Day,” the May 1 holiday is celebrated in countries across the world.

On May 11, 1894, employees of the Pullman Palace Car Company in Chicago went on strike to protest wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. In June, the American Railroad Union (ARU), led by Eugene V. Debs, called for a boycott of all Pullman railway cars, crippling railroad traffic nationwide. Tens of thousands of workers walked off the job.

Days after the ARU joined the Pullman strike, a languishing bill to make Labor Day a national holiday was signed into law by President Grover Cleveland on June 28, 1894. To end the boycott, the National Guard was sent to Chicago and when strikers began to riot, fired into the mob, killing dozens of people.

The Labor Day holiday was viewed as a gesture to repair ties with American workers. In the years that followed, company owners began to accept workers’ demands for better treatment. In 1914, Henry Ford more than doubled wages, and in two years doubled his profits. In 1926, he cut workers’ hours from nine to eight. During the New Deal, the 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act limited child labor, set a minimum wage, and mandated a shorter workweek, with overtime pay for longer shifts. By the 1940s, the average workweek had fallen to five eight-hour days.

What we take for granted in our lifetime was fought for and accomplished by the poor and powerless, working together. Let’s remember the heart and spirit of hope of those who came before us to make a better life and brighter future for their families and ours!